What Is The Pet Policy For United Airlines?

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Chief Editor of - Elite Fly USA

United Airlines is a popular air carrier that has been serving customers for decades. The airline has gained a reputation for providing exceptional services to their passengers, and that includes those who travel with their furry friends. If you’re planning to travel with your pet on United Airlines, it’s important to know the airline’s pet policy to ensure a hassle-free experience.

United Airlines allows passengers to bring their pets on board, but there are certain guidelines and restrictions that you should be aware of. These guidelines include the types of animals that are allowed on board, the size and weight limits, and the fees associated with bringing your pet. In this article, we’ll give you all the information you need to know about United Airlines’ pet policy, so you can travel with your furry friend with ease.

What is the Pet Policy for United Airlines?

United Airlines Pet Policy: Everything You Need to Know

1. Types of Pets Allowed

United Airlines welcomes small dogs, cats, rabbits, and birds on their flights. There are certain restrictions on the breeds of dogs allowed, and the airline does not accept any other animals as checked or carry-on baggage. However, service animals are allowed on all flights, regardless of breed or size.

2. Fees and Charges

United Airlines charges a fee for pets to travel in the cabin or as checked baggage. The fee for pets traveling in the cabin is $125 each way, while the fee for checked pets is $250 each way. The fees may vary depending on the destination and the time of year. It’s important to note that fees are non-refundable, even if the reservation is canceled.

3. Reservations and Restrictions

To ensure that there is enough space for your pet, you must make a reservation for your pet in advance. The number of pets allowed on each flight is limited, so it’s recommended to make your reservation as early as possible. Additionally, there are certain restrictions on the size and weight of your pet, as well as the type of carrier you must use.

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Size and Weight Restrictions

Your pet and carrier must not exceed the maximum weight and size limits set by United Airlines. The maximum size for a pet carrier is 18 inches long x 11 inches wide x 11 inches high. The maximum weight for a pet and carrier combined is 16 pounds.

Carrier Restrictions

The carrier you use for your pet must meet certain requirements to ensure the safety and comfort of your pet during the flight. The carrier must be leak-proof, well-ventilated, and have enough space for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Additionally, the carrier must fit under the seat in front of you.

4. Pet Check-In Process

When you arrive at the airport, you must check in your pet at the United Airlines check-in counter. You will need to provide all the necessary documentation for your pet, including health certificates and vaccination records. United Airlines recommends arriving at the airport at least two hours before your flight to allow enough time for the check-in process.

Health Certificates and Vaccinations

Your pet must have a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel. This certificate must show that your pet is in good health and is fit to travel. Additionally, your pet must be up to date on all required vaccinations.

5. Boarding Process

Pets traveling in the cabin must be kept in their carriers and placed under the seat in front of you during the entire flight. The carrier must be stowed before takeoff and landing, and you are not allowed to remove your pet from the carrier during the flight. Pets traveling as checked baggage will be transported in the cargo hold of the plane.

Comfort and Safety

United Airlines takes the comfort and safety of your pet seriously. The airline has specific guidelines for temperature and pressure control in the cargo hold to ensure that your pet is comfortable throughout the flight. Additionally, the airline will not accept pets for travel if the temperature at any point during the journey is forecasted to be above 85°F or below 45°F.

6. International Pet Travel

If you are traveling with your pet internationally, there are additional requirements you must meet. Each country has its own rules and regulations regarding the importation of pets, and it’s your responsibility to ensure that you have all the necessary documentation and vaccinations for your pet.

Documentation Requirements

You must provide all the necessary documentation for your pet, including a health certificate and proof of rabies vaccination. Additionally, some countries may require a quarantine period upon arrival.

Additional Fees

There may be additional fees associated with international pet travel, such as customs fees and import taxes. It’s important to research the requirements for your destination country and budget accordingly.

7. Pet Travel Benefits

Traveling with your pet can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. You can enjoy the company of your furry friend and reduce the stress of leaving them behind. Additionally, many hotels and vacation rentals now offer pet-friendly accommodations, making it easier to plan your trip.

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Reduced Stress

Leaving your pet behind can cause stress and anxiety for both you and your pet. By traveling with your pet, you can reduce this stress and enjoy the comfort of having your furry friend by your side.

Increased Bonding

Traveling with your pet can also strengthen your bond and create new memories together. Whether you’re exploring new destinations or simply enjoying a relaxing day at the beach, traveling with your pet can be a fun and rewarding experience.

8. United Airlines Pet Policy vs. Other Airlines

When it comes to pet travel, each airline has its own policies and guidelines. While United Airlines has strict size and weight restrictions for pets, they do allow a wide range of animals on their flights. Other airlines may have more lenient size and weight restrictions, but may not allow certain types of animals on their flights.

Choosing the Right Airline

When choosing an airline for pet travel, it’s important to consider your pet’s needs and the airline’s policies. United Airlines is a good choice for pet owners who want to travel with a small dog, cat, rabbit, or bird. However, if you have a larger pet or a different type of animal, you may need to consider other airlines.

9. Tips for Pet Travel

Traveling with your pet can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it does require some preparation and planning. Here are some tips to help make your pet’s travel experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

Prepare Your Pet

Before you travel, make sure your pet is comfortable in their carrier and has plenty of opportunities to use the bathroom. Additionally, consider taking your pet for a short trip in their carrier to get them used to the experience.

Pack for Your Pet

Make sure to pack all the necessary items for your pet, including food, water, and any medications they need. Additionally, bring along some of their favorite toys or blankets to help them feel more comfortable.

10. Conclusion

United Airlines has a comprehensive pet policy that allows small dogs, cats, rabbits, and birds to travel on their flights. While there are certain restrictions on the size and weight of your pet, and the type of carrier you must use, United Airlines takes the comfort and safety of your pet seriously. By following the guidelines and tips provided, you can ensure that your pet has a comfortable and stress-free travel experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of pets are allowed on United Airlines?

United Airlines allows domesticated cats, dogs, rabbits, and household birds (excluding cockatoos) to travel in-cabin or as cargo. Emotional support animals are also allowed with proper documentation.

In addition, United Cargo accepts a variety of animals for transportation, including but not limited to cats, dogs, horses, tropical fish, reptiles, and small mammals.

What are the requirements for traveling with a pet on United Airlines?

To travel with a pet on United Airlines, you must make a reservation for your pet in advance and pay the applicable fees. Pets must be in an airline-approved carrier and must remain in the carrier for the duration of the flight.

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The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you if traveling in-cabin or meet size and weight restrictions if traveling as cargo. You must also provide a health certificate and any other required documentation for your pet.

What are the fees for traveling with a pet on United Airlines?

The fees for traveling with a pet on United Airlines vary depending on the type of pet, the destination, and the service selected. In-cabin pet fees start at $125 each way, and cargo pet fees start at $275 each way.

Additional fees may apply for larger or heavier pets, as well as for international travel. You can find detailed information on the United Airlines website or by contacting customer service.

What is the maximum size and weight for pets traveling on United Airlines?

The maximum size and weight for pets traveling on United Airlines depend on the service selected and the type of pet. In-cabin pets must fit under the seat in front of you and cannot exceed 18 inches x 11 inches x 11 inches (45 cm x 28 cm x 28 cm) and 16 pounds (7 kg).

Cargo pets must meet size and weight restrictions based on the aircraft used for the flight. You can find detailed information on the United Airlines website or by contacting customer service.

What is the process for checking in a pet on United Airlines?

If you are traveling with a pet on United Airlines, you must check in at the airport and provide all required documentation, including a health certificate and proof of vaccination. You must also pay any applicable fees.

In-cabin pets must remain in their carrier until the flight is over, while cargo pets will be transported to the cargo hold of the aircraft. You can track the status of your pet during the flight using United Airlines’ PetSafe program.

How to fly with your cat/dog on United Airlines || United Airlines Pet Policy


In conclusion, United Airlines has a pet policy that allows certain types of pets to travel with their owners in the cabin or as cargo. The policy is designed to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers, whether they have pets or not.

If you are planning to travel with your pet on United Airlines, it is important to review the policy in detail and follow the guidelines to avoid any issues or problems. This includes making sure your pet is properly vaccinated, has the required documentation, and is placed in an appropriate carrier that meets United’s specifications.

Overall, United Airlines’ pet policy is a great option for pet owners who want to travel with their furry friends. With careful preparation and adherence to the guidelines, you and your pet can enjoy a safe and stress-free flight on United Airlines.

adminChief Editor of - Elite Fly USA

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